Jack D. Walp 1946-2026

Jack was born June 25, 1946, in Youngstown, a son of the late Jack S. and Elizabeth N. Nicholson Walp, and was a lifelong area resident.

He graduated from Rayen High School in 1964 and went on to proudly serve in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War as an intelligence specialist, where he earned a National Defense Service Medal.

Jack earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Youngstown State University. He later became a professor at YSU, where he taught self-defense and martial arts. In addition, Jack worked as a fitness and martial arts instructor at various community centers throughout the area. A lifelong student of physical fitness, Jack spent countless hours watching instructional videos and reading books on fitness and weightlifting. Martial arts was not just a career for him — it was his passion and his way of life.

Jack leaves behind his beloved wife, Deena, whom he married Feb. 15, 2016; a daughter, Elizabeth (Richard) Mulhall, DVM, of Pittman, New Jersey; two stepsons, Daniel (Jennifer) East of Wytheville, Virginia, and David (Elise) East of Thomasville, North Carolina; and 11 grandchildren. He is also survived by two sisters-in-law, MaryDee (Don) and Robin (Woodrow); a niece, Sue (Brett) Buzard; and a nephew, Curtis (Kathleen) Bodamer.

In addition to his parents, Jack was preceded in death by his sister, Barbara Wilkinson, and a niece, Jodi Shaw.

There will be a celebration of Jack’s life 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026, at The Gentry Catering, 116 E. Liberty St., Hubbard, OH 44425.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for you to please make a monetary donation to an animal charity of your choice.

To view this obituary and leave condolences for the family, please visit www.lanefuneralhomes.com.

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